When you hear the words “sexual harassment,” you’re likely to imagine a man in a suit crossing the line with his secretary. The definition of sexual harassment in the workplace and school systems has become broader and more encompassing, as evidenced by Fernando Flores’ sexual harassment lawsuit against pop star Britney Spears. According to MTV, Fernando Flores is suing Britney Spears for sexual harassment. In the news again with a not-so-flattering headline, is Britney Spears likely to make another comeback after bad press?

Who is Fernando Flores and what is he claiming?

Flores was a bodyguard formerly employed by pop icon Britney Spears. TMZ published a scanned copy of the lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, stating that Spears sexually harassed him and engaged in emotionally traumatizing behaviors toward him. The claim also reports “outrageous conduct” directed toward or in the presence of Britney Spears’ two children.

Has Britney Spears issued a statement about the sexual harassment charges by Fernando Flores?

Though Spears has been quiet via her Twitter account, she has spoken out on her personal website and blog. She reports that the claims were investigated by police and social services and were dismissed, and that she feels confident that Flores’ court case will be dismissed as well.

Will this case spark more interest in, or turn more people away from, Britney Spears?

Britney Spears has been no stranger to controversial behavior in recent years. Prior to these charges by bodyguard Fernando Flores, Spears was in the spotlight for a variety of negative behaviors, including drinking; partying; her very public relationship with, marriage to and divorce from Kevin Federline; and a 2007 visit to rehab. The good-girl image of her youth has been tarnished over the years, and these alleged actions add to the long list of reasons that Spears may never make it back to the level of fame and popularity she once had.

Whether or not the charges of sexual harassment by Flores against Spears are true, they have the potential to permanently mar the image of the pop star.